New mapping tool for cycle routes being tested

The Transport Agency has developed a draft mapping tool that shows how cycle touring routes connect across New Zealand, to help people explore the country by bike. The draft mapping tool shows all the New Zealand Cycle Trails (Great Rides and Heartland Rides) as well as council cycling infrastructure (cycle lanes, cycle paths, shared paths, etc) and lots of cycle routes that are recommended by experienced cycle tourers and bike-packers.

It is the most comprehensive map available of cycling routes in New Zealand. But it is just an overview to show how they all connect. For more detail, click on any of the map lines and you will find a summary, which includes a link to any existing websites with information about the routes.

This mapping tool has two ‘themes’, you can switch between:

• Cycle routes grouped into their category/brand eg, Great Rides, Heartland Rides, etc

• Cycle Trail Facility type, that will show you if a trail is fully sealed or has some unsealed portions and shows if the route is separated from traffic or not. This is useful for people planning a cycle journey if they particularly like/dislike gravel roads/paths, or want to completely avoid traffic.

The default theme is grouped by category/brand. To change the theme, just under the ‘address’ search tool you can find the ‘Theme Switcher’.

This draft mapping tool will be updated over time as new cycling infrastructure is built, or if old cycle routes are closed.

Have a look at the draft tool and let them know any feedback at nzcyclingnetwork@nzta.govt.nz